Longtime PlayStation exec Jack Tretton to step down at end of month [Updated]

Surprise announcement ends 19 years of involvement with Sony game consoles.

In a surprising announcement late today, Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) President and CEO Jack Tretton revealed that he will step down from his position effective March 31. While Tretton said the move was part of a "mutual agreement" with SCEA, he also said that he had "mixed feelings" about the announcement, suggesting a certain ambivalence about the departure.

"I leave knowing that the PlayStation brand has never been stronger, PlayStation 4 momentum continues to accelerate, and the future will only get brighter for our gamers," Tretton said in the announcement. "Serving PlayStation fans for the past 19 years has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my career. Your passion for gaming inspired me every day."

[Update: In a press release, Sony announced that current Sony Network Entertainment International EVP and COO Shawn Layden would be taking Tretton's place at the helm of SCEA. Layden has been with Sony for 15 years and previously served as president of Sony Computer Entertainment Japan. The release also obliquely qualifies Tretton's departure by saying he and SCEA decided "not to renew their contractual relationship."]

Tretton was promoted to president and CEO of Sony's American video game arm in 2006. He replaced SCEA head Kaz Hirai, who moved up to become president of the international Sony Computer Entertainment on his way to a promotion as CEO of the entire Sony corporation.

Tretton seemed well-positioned to see similar advancement to higher positions at the company, especially considering the successful launch of the PlayStation 4 in recent months. His sudden departure raises questions about the internal politics in play at the top levels of Sony, and of Tretton's satisfaction with his role at the company.

Kyle Orland / Kyle is the Senior Gaming Editor at Ars Technica, specializing in video game hardware and software. He has journalism and computer science degrees from University of Maryland. He is based in Pittsburgh, PA.